Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of antiepileptic drugs, particularly in the production of (R)-phenibut derivatives. Its chiral structure makes it valuable in developing enantiomerically pure pharmaceuticals targeting the central nervous system. It is also employed in research for developing novel GABA analogs with improved blood-brain barrier penetration. Commonly utilized in medicinal chemistry for structure-activity relationship studies aimed at enhancing neuroactive agent efficacy.